5 Best foods to try in Ravenna

If you're a foodie looking for an unforgettable culinary experience, Ravenna food should be at the top of your list.

This charming Italian city, famous for its mosaics, is also a treasure trove of gastronomic delights.

From traditional piadina to indulgent desserts, Ravenna offers a taste of Romagna's rich culinary heritage.

Curious to know what you must eat when visiting?

Here's your guide to the five best foods in Ravenna that will make your trip truly memorable.

The best food in Ravenna

1. Piadina: the soul of Romagna

No list of Ravenna food is complete without mentioning piadina, a flatbread that embodies the spirit of Romagna’s cuisine.

Often called the "bread of the people," piadina has been a staple of the region since the Middle Ages, cooked on hot griddles and filled with fresh, seasonal ingredients.

But what is piadina, exactly?

It’s a simple unleavened flatbread made from flour, water, lard (or olive oil), and a pinch of salt.

Yet its simplicity is what makes it so versatile.

Traditionally, piadina was a farmer's meal, but today, it’s enjoyed by everyone—from locals grabbing a quick lunch to travelers eager to taste an authentic Romagnolo specialty.

Piadina originates from the Romagna side of the Emilia-Romagna region.

However, its preparation varies depending on where you are.

In Ravenna, the piadina tends to be slightly thicker and softer, making it perfect for wrapping hearty fillings like squacquerone cheese, prosciutto crudo, and arugula.

In Rimini, by contrast, piadinas are thinner and crispier, giving a different texture entirely. This diversity makes it exciting to try piadina across the region.

How do you eat piadina?

That’s the fun part—you can eat it in so many ways!
Fold it in half like a taco, wrap it like a burrito, or stack one on top of another like an Italian quesadilla.

Whether you go for a savory filling of cured meats and cheeses or a sweet combination like Nutella and bananas, each bite bursts with flavor.

2. Cappelletti: a hug in a bowl

If there’s one dish that embodies the warmth and love of Romagna’s culinary traditions, it’s cappelletti.

These small, hat-shaped pasta parcels are a true comfort food, made to bring people together around the dinner table.

What is the meaning of cappelletti pasta?

The name "cappelletti" literally translates to "little hats," a reference to their unique shape. Each parcel is carefully hand-rolled and filled with a mixture of cheese, meat, or vegetables, depending on the recipe.

Cappelletti holds a special place in the hearts of locals, especially during holidays or family celebrations.

Traditionally, it’s served in a rich, clear broth—a dish that’s simple yet profoundly satisfying.

Imagine a steaming bowl of cappelletti, the aroma of the broth wafting through the air, and the first bite revealing a delicate explosion of flavor.

While the classic way is to enjoy them in broth, you’ll also find them paired with hearty sauces like meat ragù or creamy cheese-based dressings in some restaurants.
Both versions are delicious, but the broth version carries the true essence of Romagna’s tradition.

One question many visitors ask is, “Is cappelletti the same as tortellini?”
The answer is no.

Though similar in appearance, cappelletti is typically larger, with a different fold and filling.
Tortellini often features a mix of pork and cheese, while cappelletti’s filling is softer and more nuanced, showcasing ingredients like ricotta and Parmesan.

Ready to taste this iconic dish?
Many of the Ravenna best restaurants serve cappelletti prepared just like the locals love it.

Be sure to try it for an authentic experience.

3. Passatelli: a rustic comfort food

Passatelli might not be as famous as piadina or cappelletti, but it’s one of Ravenna’s hidden gems.

These rustic pasta strands are made from a mix of breadcrumbs, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and nutmeg.

Pressed through a special tool called an iron for passatelli, they emerge as thick, irregular noodles that embody the humble yet flavorful roots of Romagna’s cuisine.

Traditionally, passatelli is served in a hot, savory broth, much like cappelletti, making it a perfect comfort food for colder months.

Want a modern twist?

Many restaurants in Ravenna now serve passatelli asciutti (dry), pairing it with creative sauces like seafood ragù or porcini mushrooms.

Both versions celebrate the unique character of this dish, giving you a taste of tradition and innovation on one plate.

Are you intrigued by the idea of making this rustic dish at home?
Why not take a Ravenna cooking class to learn the secrets of preparing passatelli from scratch?

It’s a hands-on experience that will leave you with new skills and delicious memories to take home.

4. Albana wine: a taste of Romagna in every sip

No exploration of Ravenna food would be complete without a glass of Albana wine.

This golden white wine is more than just a drink—it’s a cultural symbol of Romagna.

In fact, Albana holds the honor of being the first white wine to receive DOCG status, Italy’s highest wine classification.

Albana is incredibly versatile.

• The dry version pairs wonderfully with savory dishes like piadina and passatelli, enhancing their flavors without overpowering them.
• For dessert, the sweet version of Albana is the perfect match for pesche dolci, creating a harmonious end to any meal.

5. Pesche Dolci: sweet perfection in a bite

The Pesche dolci are not baked peaches, but rather a dessert masterpiece made of two halves of soft, delicate pastry shells.

These are no ordinary shortcrust pastries; they are crafted using the same dough as the traditional ciambella Romagnola, filled with rich pastry cream—classic or chocolate—then dipped in Alchermes liqueur and rolled in granulated sugar.

The result?
A true explosion of flavors.

Once a Sunday ritual in Romagna, this dessert held a special role in family gatherings.

In the city, the head of the family would stop by the pastry shop to pick up a tray of these treats.

In rural areas, where conveniences were fewer, the lady of the house would bake desserts herself, using them to sanctify family time with something truly special.

Known as "Pisgheini" in the local dialect, pesche dolci continue to be a hallmark of Ravenna’s culinary heritage.

They symbolize the joy of sharing and the importance of celebrating with loved ones.

Conclusion: plan your culinary adventure in Ravenna

From the iconic piadina to the indulgent pesche dolci, Ravenna’s food scene is a celebration of tradition and flavor.

Each dish tells a story of the region’s history and its love for fresh, high-quality ingredients.

Are you ready to experience the best of Ravenna food for yourself?

Combine this gastronomic journey with the city’s stunning mosaics by booking our Ravenna tour.

Don’t just visit Ravenna—taste it!